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NEW YEAR, BETTER YOU

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“We were on our own for so long...finally, there was someone who listened and someone who cared at SBCS.”

SBCS transforms communities to support the well-being and prosperity of children, youth, and families in Chula Vista and across the county. You can help. Learn more: @SBCSSanDiego SBCSSanDiego.org

+1 (619) 420-3620 impact@csbcs.org

318 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA

LIFESTYLE LETTER

2026: The Year of Grace, Intention, and Wellness

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Andrea Malave | andrea.malave@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Sarah Krueger | sarah.krueger@citylifestyle.com

As the calendar turns to January, we are given the beautiful gift of a fresh start—365 blank pages to fill with intention and purpose. While this time often inspires resolutions, I find it more meaningful to focus on renewal and strengthening the foundations of our lives. True health is a personal journey, spanning more than just our physical bodies. It encompasses the peace of our minds, the nourishment of our spirits, and the harmony of our surroundings. For me, the deepest wellspring of strength and balance comes from my faith, which grounds me and reminds me that every day is a genuine blessing and opportunity for a new beginning. In this edition, we explore the many pathways to a healthier life right here in Chula Vista. As we commit to checking in on our own well-being—seeking vigor for our body, clarity for our mind, and peace in our home—let us also remember to extend that care outward by checking in on each other, strengthening the vital connections that truly sustain us. My hope for us all this year is that we approach this journey with grace, patience, and commitment. May we embrace the small, daily choices that move us closer to our best, most vibrant selves. Here’s to a purposeful and healthy start to the new year!

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz

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CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Chula Vista City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Chula Vista area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chula Vista City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

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Featured

20 22 26 6

Beyond Sweat

Discover workouts that help people hit their fitness goals while healing from the inside out

22 On the Cover

Departments

Yoga Meditation woman silhouette on the ocean during amazing sunset.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Get Active FITNESS

Self Care WELLNESS

Expert Help HOME + DESIGN

Must See FITNESS

Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

Realty Report REAL ESTATE

The Benefits of Plant-Based Eating

Hear from NASM-Certified personal trainer about establishing the best habits

Clean Home, Clear Mind

Cleaning rituals to transform your space and declutter your mind

Your Best Year Yet

Revolutionize your body with fitness, focus, and friendship

Photography: Makarovada

Happy New Year! Cheers to 2026! Would you like to start the New Year with an extra $10,000.00?

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1 – 3: Guests celebrating SBCS Ribbon Cutting event on Oct. 22 ft. Joyes Gone Grazey grazing table 4 – 5: Chula Vista Champions 5k Run ft. Darryll T. Coleman and Chula Vista Mayor John McCann 6 – 7: Chula VIsta City Lifestyle Publisher Andrea celebrating World Kindness Day with free goodies at Casa de Otay

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This New Year, Choose a Life That Feels Good—Inside and Out. Don’t jump to another diet plan to repurpose YOU! If you’re ready for more energy, more calm, better nourishment, and habits that actually stick, this is your moment. Our 7-Week Wholistic Wellness Course helps you create simple, sustainable practices in nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset— without overwhelm, restriction, or guilt. Just small, doable changes that transform how you feel long-term. 317.747.1738 wholistic-wellness-services.com

D E S I G N

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If you’re ready to elevate your space and want to explore what Form + Flow can bring to your home, schedule a call with us! www.form-flow.design JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C HUL AV I STA

JANUARY 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

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Join the Tribe: Your Transformation Starts Now Ready to make a real change in 2026? The Camp Transformation Center in Chula Vista specializes in dramatic, guaranteed results through motivating programs like their 6-Week Challenge. More than just a gym, The Camp provides a supportive “Tribe” focused on accountability, nutrition, and fitness, ensuring you hit your goals. Stop dreaming about transformation and start living it with the community you need to succeed. Visit their Chula Vista location to join the Tribe! thecamptc.com/ chula-vista-california/

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New Year, Best Friend: Prioritize Pet Wellness Start 2026 with a wellness resolution for your pet! Paw Pleasers in Chula Vista is your local expert for healthy diets. They offer a curated selection of high-quality food, including both grain and grainfree options, plus gently cooked meals. Their knowledgeable staff answers nutrition questions. Treat your pet to fresh-baked, human-grade goods, or utilize their full-service grooming through Beauty Meet Beast. Prioritize true health from the bowl to the bath this year. https://pawpleasers.com/

Coastal Calm: Plan Your Water Wellness Adventure R&R Surf recently lit up the South Bay by hosting 300 guests for glass-kayak wildlife tours during the Amway Convention at the Gaylord Pacific. Guests paddled through the Chula Vista estuary, spotting osprey and shimmering marsh life beneath crystal-clear kayaks. The R&R Surf team guided each group with ease, proving this is the perfect blend of adventure and restorative calm. Plan your own unique water wellness adventure today and prioritize well-being in 2026. https://www.sdrandrsurf.com/

CLIENT FOCUSED. RESULTS DRIVEN. If you or a loved one has been injured, the path forward can feel overwhelming. Nahama Law is here to guide you through it. Our team represents adults and children hurt in car accidents, dog bites, and slip-or-trip incidents at stores, sidewalks, or other properties. We’ll stand by your side—every step of the way—to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

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CONTINUED >

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business monthly CONTINUED

New Year, New Hue: Invest in Home Sanctuary Make your 2026 resolution about transforming your environment. Montgomery Paint Contracting, with over 20 years in business, specializes in turning your house into a luxurious home sanctuary. The right colors and a flawless finish contribute significantly to your daily mood and sense of well-being. Their expert team handles interior and exterior projects with precision and reliability, ensuring a smooth, stress-free process. Trust Chula Vista’s experienced painting professionals to deliver the quality your home deserves. www. montgomerypaintcontracting.com

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Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of. Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you? Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.

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Hotwor x inf rar ed worko uts h elp people h it th eir f itne s s goals w h ile h ealing f rom th e inside out

BEYOND SWEAT ARTICLE BY SARAH KRUEGER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY HOTWORX

Imagine the setting. The lights are dim and the temperature in the room is way up. The muscles in your legs tense as your virtual coach counts down the minutes left in your high intensity interval. Beads of sweat drip from your hairline as your heart rate steadily rises. You look to your left to see just two other people—lost in their own workout, focused on the goal in front of them. After what seems like forever, you take a deep breath in…and your workout is complete. When you take a look at the clock, you notice that just 15 minutes have passed, though you feel like your body’s done much more work than that. This is what the workouts look and feel like at Hotworx, a 24 hour infrared fitness studio housed in the Millenia community in East Chula Vista. Michelle, Franchise Owner and powerhouse of motivation, says that their model is crafted for people in every stage of their fitness journey. Whether it is your first

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time joining a gym or you are a professional athlete looking for unique benefits of a new kind of workout, there’s an appropriate and approachable workout routine for you at Hotworx. Their workout model is made up of a combination of heat, exercise, and infrared energy, what they call “3D Training,” and offers benefits far beyond that of a workout in a traditional gym. From extended calorie burning times to detoxification and improved blood circulation, Hotworx Millenia offers more than just physical fitness—they offer a way to heal your body from the inside out. When you arrive at the Hotworx studio, you’ll notice some unique features. First, each member has their own code to open the door. When you sign up to be part of the community, you become a VIP, gaining access to workout rooms and weight training at any hour of the day. Around the corner there are a handful of infrared sauna workout rooms, perfectly sized for small groups of one to three people and dedicated to varying types of exercise like yoga, pilates, isometric compression, bands, cycling, rowing, and cardio HIIT. Classes range from 15 to 45 minutes long and are led on screen by professional trainers. You book your class ahead of time on the app, and then show up for your workout, ready to sweat. Though the workouts are short, they definitely pack a punch. The combination of infrared technology and high temperatures paired with your exercise means that in as little as one short session you receive the same benefits as an hour-long workout in a more traditional environment. Don’t believe it? Try it for yourself! You’ll notice right away that it doesn’t take long to feel the burn. The Hotworx studio also has a functional exercise area called the “FX Zone.” This area contains free weights, ropes, and workout equipment that you can use to cross train or lift weights, if that’s more your style. This space can be used at your leisure or as part of a guided workout hosted by a silent trainer before or after your infrared session.

“It’s no longer a luxury —it’s a need for us to detox our bodies.”

THE MIGHTY BENEFITS OF INFRARED WORKOUTS

The added layer of infrared to a Hotworx workout provides a number of benefits to promote health and healing, something Michelle says is essential. “It’s no longer a luxury to do this,” she says, “it’s a need for us to detox our bodies.” The world looks different today than it did in the past. Our environments are full of toxins and pollutants, and levels of stress and inflammation are higher than ever before. “It’s necessary to take that time to care for our insides,” she says. CONTINUED >

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Here are eight of the incredible benefits of working out in an infrared environment: 1. Detoxification. Infrared light penetrates the body approximately 1.5 to 2 inches below the skin’s surface. That kind of deep heating activates warming of muscle tissue, joints and organs, causing a deeper sweat and helping the body release toxins through the skin. 2. Improved Circulation and Oxygen Flow. Because infrared light warms the body from the inside out, it increases blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles, supporting endurance, recovery, and overall cardiovascular health. 3. Accelerated Calorie Burn. The depth of the heat from infrared waves causes your heart rate to naturally increase, allowing you to burn more calories in the same amount (or less) time compared to a non-heated workout, even at lower intensity levels. The best part? The calorie burn continues long after you’ve left the studio. 4. Muscle Recovery. Infrared heat helps relax muscles, reduce stiffness, and speed up recovery after intense workouts. It’s often used by athletes and trainers to support joint mobility and healing. 5. Anti-Aging Through Cell Regeneration. Infrared heat stimulates collagen production, increases circulation to the skin, reduces inflammation, and promotes cell regeneration, leaving you with a post-workout glow that lasts. 6. Immune System Support. By slightly raising the body’s core temperature, infrared workouts can mimic the effects of a mild fever, helping the immune system fight off infections and build resilience.

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7. Stress Reduction and Mood Boost. Infrared heat promotes deep muscle relaxation and reduces stress hormones, helping lower cortisol and minimize anxiety while improving overall mood and focus during and after workouts. 8. Better Sleep & Overall Happiness. Each of the benefits listed above lead to an overall sense of well-being. Reduced inflammation, lower cortisol levels, healthy circulation, and recovery leading to better sleep and more relaxed state of being. What more could you want from a workout? If you’re looking to take your health seriously in 2026, there is no easier way to do it. Short classes, round the clock access, and a HUGE return for minimal time commitment make trying Hotworx a no-brainer. Plus, the team at the studio is friendly, energetic, and 100% on your team. They host calorie burn challenges for their “Hotties” (the affectionate name for Hotworx gym-goers) with valuable prizes for top achievers. And with regular mottos like “Earn the Burn” and “Embrace the Shake,” you know they mean business right alongside the fun.

START NOW AND SHOW UP FOR YOURSELF TODAY.

We asked Michelle what she’d like to say to people who are ready to take their holistic health seriously in the new year. With a matter of fact, no nonsense tone, she shares: “Start now. Show up for yourself. Walk in the door. That’s it. It can’t get any simpler.” And with how accessible they’ve made it to take your health seriously at Hotworx, she just might be right about that!

How Hotworx Members are Healing. Michelle says that Hotworx workouts are about more than just fitness goals. “How are you healing?” she says, is a more appropriate question. Elvira says that Hotworx unequivocally helped her come out of her depression. “You guys have helped me physically, emotionally, and spiritually [...] Just the energy when you walk in here is so good, and then you get to sweat all the toxins out.” Staff member Jessica says it was the first place she could work out after her knee surgery that didn’t cause pain. The heat and infrared helped reduce her inflammation and she was able to move her knee in ways that had been impossible before. She’s also suffered from fibromyalgia and pcos for most of her life, both of which have been reduced since starting infrared workouts. Finally, member Angelo says that his Hotworx workouts helped him turnaround his health. After his doctor informed him that he had high cholesterol, he began regular workouts at Hotworx and started taking his health seriously. Since then, he’s lost significant weight, lowered his cholesterol to healthy levels, and improved his overall life. If holistic health is on your resolutions list this year, it’s time to take Michelle’s advice to “show up” and Earn the Burn!

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the BENEFITS OF PLANT-BASED EATING ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA MARTIN AYOADE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Most people think a plant-based diet is strictly for those vegan and vegetarian types, but there is no debating the overwhelming evidence showing the benefits of improved health for those who make that diet choice. Plant-based eating is more of a lifestyle than a diet. You are simply eating more foods that are closer to their harvested state with minimal processing.

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Meatless diets have been shown to improve health outcomes by lowering the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation, and some cancers. It also improves gut health because of added fiber to your diet. A plant-based diet still allows to you consume the carbohydrates, protein, fats, minerals and vitamins that are necessary for good health, with the added benefits of being higher in fiber and phytonutrients. You do not have to give up meat entirely and there are labels to identify where you fall in your plant eating journey. Do what is comfortable for you so you will stick with it. You can choose to be a flexitarian which mean you occasionally eat meat but you choose plants as the primary foods you eat. You have some flexibility with your diet. If you choose to be a vegetarian, then you do not eat meats but you still eat eggs and dairy products as opposed to being a vegan who eats no animal products. There is also another reason to add more fruits and vegetables to your daily food intake; It is better for the environment. The industries that produce our dairy and meats is said to account for a third of the world’s water usage in addition to producing greenhouse gas emissions. Eat your greens and save the planet!

TIPS TO GET STARTED ON YOUR PLANT-BASED JOURNEY: 1. Make small changes to test your comfort level when reducing meat intake. There is a risk of being overwhelmed if you suddenly stop eating meat altogether, and it will be harder stick to your choice long term. Increase consumption of plant foods you already like. 2. A plant-based diet does not mean boring! You can create a variety of dishes, including ethnic meals that are meat free and delicious. This is a great time to try new spices to add a punch to your vegetables and add green leafy vegetables to your smoothies. 3. Use the whole plant because there are nutrients in every part of the plant, including the stems and leaves. Use the leaves from celery, radishes, beets and carrots and use the stems from spinach. Don’t throw away vital nutrients like potassium, vitamin C and fiber. You are also reducing waste. 4. Eat the rainbow! Choose different colored fruits and vegetables to get a variety of nutrients. The color of plant-based foods is often an indicator of the vitamins and minerals they contain. So, more colors mean more nutrients. Example: Orange foods contain beta carotene, the precursor for vitamin A. 5. If you do not eat animal products, you will need to take a B12 and possibly an iron supplement. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin available only in animal products. Low B12 can cause anemia and damage to the nervous system. Some vegan foods are fortified with vitamin B12. 6. A meat-free diet does not automatically mean healthy if you replace the meat with highly processed junk food and meat substitutes. You need to eat fresh quality fruits, vegetables and grains to get the health benefits that can add years to your life.

Claudia Martin-Ayoade, is a registered dietitian, writer and public speaker who is passionate about educating people on nutrition and addressing food insecurity. AgeSmartNutrition.com

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CLEAN HOME, CLEAR MIND Cleaning rituals to transform your space and declutter your mind ARTICLE BY SARAH KRUEGER

Your home is your sanctuary. It’s where you cook, laugh, raise your children, and host your friends and family. It’s where you land at the end of the day to take a breath and where you kick your shoes off to relax. When your home feels lighter, you feel lighter. After the busyness of the holidays, there’s something especially comforting about a clean home environment to start you on the right path for the new year. To help you get there, we’ve gathered some expert-approved tips from our friends over at JM Cleaning to help keep your home tidy so you can rest, refresh, and reclaim your space in the new year.

EXP E RT H E LP | HO M E + D E SIGN

1. The Daily Reset. Achieving a clean and luxurious feeling home environment doesn’t mean you have to spend every weekend in a cleaning frenzy. The power of smaller daily tasks can help keep things tidy, which helps you have a clearer mind from day to day. Before bed or at a designated time each day, spend just ten minutes restoring the small things. Wipe down main surfaces, fold throw blankets, run a quick vacuum, and put away stray items. Try making a ritual out of it by lighting a candle, opening a window, or spraying some lavender to help

bring a calming sense of presence into your seemingly mundane tasks. 2. Develop Small Habits for a Big Impact. The difference between a home that feels calm and clean on a regular basis and one that goes in waves, is consistency. Developing small habits that you stick to on a regular basis is the difference between overwhelm and a clear mind. Try embracing the Five Minute Rule: if it takes less than five minutes to complete a task, do it now. For example, wipe off any water splashes on the bathroom sink when you’ve finished brushing your teeth, or put your dishes in the dishwasher after dinner. Take out the trash instead of putting it off until tomorrow, and pull out the glass cleaner to give your mirrors a quick spot clean when you notice they need it. Dust your bookshelf or do a quick lint roll on your sofa. There are countless 5 minute tasks that are simple to transform into a daily habit. Over time, these habits will help keep your home feeling effortlessly put-together for what feels like minimal effort. 3. Prioritize high-impact areas. Start with the entryway, your home’s first impression. A clutter free foyer, clean doormat, and a signature scent—like cedar, lavender, or soft citrus—communicates calm and intention. Straighten shoes, clear surfaces by the entrance, and give the floor a quick sweep to make your entire home feel more composed. Next, refresh your countertops. Particularly in the kitchen and bathrooms, clear and polished surfaces give you that rewarding feeling of order, cleanliness, and luxury. Put away appliances you don’t use, and tuck away excess items. When the counters are clear the whole room feels larger and more tidy. Finally, pay some attention to your textiles. If you have a cozy blanket or pillows in your living room, give them a good fluff and fold them neatly. Rotate towels so they always look soft and fresh. Taking these small steps go a long way toward making your home look more crisp, inviting, and effortlessly put together. 4. Hire a Professional Cleaner. Studies show that choosing to pay for time-saving services, like hiring a home cleaner, increases happiness and life satisfaction more than buying material things. Having an expert come into your home not only gives you the satisfaction of a sparkling deep clean, but saves you time, energy, and effort—increasing your sense of calm and wellness and giving you space for the more important things in life. The real secret behind every peaceful, luxury-feeling home isn’t constant cleaning—it’s about building everyday habits that work for you and make a big difference. So whether you’re a busy parent, tied up at work, or simply want to feel like your home is your haven, these tips can help you keep your home in tip-top shape for ultimate comfort and mental clarity in 2026.

HOME CLEANING QUICK TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS AT JM CLEANING • Work your way from top to bottom, so that dust and debris don’t land on spaces already cleaned. Start with ceiling fans and lights, and always tackle the floors last. • Baking soda and vinegar are the superheroes of cleaning. This natural solution tackles grime, stains, odors and is effective for all kinds of surfaces. Use baking soda mixed with water first to scrub and deodorize, then finish with vinegar for disinfecting. • Use microfiber cloths rather than traditional rags. They are much better at collecting dust and dirt! • Vacuum and dust hidden spaces on a regular basis to reduce allergies. You should get under the couch and cushions at least once a month, and pay attention to corners, curtains, and bookshelves in high traffic areas, as they are big dust collectors.

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Yo u r B e s t Ye a r Ye t REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR BODY WITH FITNESS, FOCUS, AND FRIENDSHIP AT REVBODY

ARTICLE BY SARAH KRUEGER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY REVBODY

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For most of us, January is a season of new beginnings. From resolutions to routines, we have a renewed focus on making decisions that are better for our health and fitness. For Oscar and Xavier at RevBody, that sense of re-focus is not just a season. It’s a way of life.

THE REVBODY STORY

Like many small business owners, Xavier and Oscar have humble beginnings. Both born and raised in Chula Vista, they were eager to make a splash in their home community. In 2019, they saw a need in the gym they were working at and asked if they could rent some space to host classes after hours. They worked out a deal with the owner, and began crafting trainer-led fitness classes for anyone interested. With energy and vigor, they built something new from the ground up. Their classes were a quick success. Soon, their once a week classes became three times a week, and before they knew it they had more people signing up than they could handle at the gym. They moved into a new gym down the street, and jumped into developing new online workout programs for their growing community. Then, Covid hit. Like countless gyms around the world, Xavier and Oscar had to shut down their classes. While some would see this time as an impossible barrier, Xavier says it’s actually what sparked the flame for RevBody as it exists today. The down time allowed them to complete the legal paperwork for their business name and LLC. They chose the name “RevBody” as a combination of two concepts—revolutionizing fitness, and the word ‘body.’ ‘If you have a body, you can work out,” says Xavier. “We didn’t want to limit ourselves to just men or women. Our workouts are for everyone.” To make ends meet, the founder duo began running social distanced personal training sessions in Oscar’s

garage. Whatever they were doing struck a chord, because it wasn’t long before they were seeing over 50 regular clients and putting in 12 hour days on rotation to keep things running. Post-pandemic, they purchased a facility and began offering group classes in addition to their personal training. Their most consistent problem? Too many people signing up. Through their daily commitment and belief in what they were building, their success skyrocketed. Fast forward to today, and RevBody is a thriving gym community. They’ve expanded to include two rooms for classes: a strength room for upper body, lower body, full body, and TRX classes and a sculpt room for lower impact classes like heated pilates, yoga, body sculpt, barre, and cardio kickboxing. They only offer group classes and personal training, rather than open gym. This is because they want to remove any barriers—all people have to do is show up, ready to work. Training with RevBody is unique because all of their workouts are developed individually by a trainer on staff. These tailored workouts mean that not only do people get to take classes with a personalized touch, but they rarely do the same workout twice, keeping things interesting and motivating as time goes on.

A GYM FOR THE COMMUNITY

Community building is a core pillar of everything that RevBody stands for, which is clear in the ways they gather people together and give back to worthy causes. Constantly, it seems, there is something going on at RevBody that community members want to be a part of. Whether it’s handing out flowers to gym-goers on Valentine’s Day, posting important history on the walls during Black History Month, hosting “Rev Games” complete with cash prizes, or organizing events to raise money for great causes, Xavier and Oscar really have community building figured out. CONTINUED >

“As coaches we like to focus on momentum over motivation. Motivation is a feeling, meaning it can be temporary. Momentum, on the other hand, is about consistently stacking small wins.” JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C HUL AV I STA

RevBody Tips for a Great Workout:

This past October, they hosted a breast cancer fundraising event, filling the gym with people interested in raising money. In 2024, they hosted a Fall Festival and Turkey Trot that doubled as a food donation for an orphanage in Tijuana for children rescued from human trafficking, followed by a toy drive for the holidays. If joining a gym with purpose, friendship, and focused commitment is important to you, RevBody might be the one.

NEW YEAR, BETTER YOU.

Rather than scrapping your old self and becoming something different each new year, Xavier offers an alternative goal this season: To show up as your authentic self, just a little bit better. “Fitness and life go hand in hand,” says Xavier. “We’re on a lifelong journey of improvement. And I think the saying ‘new year, better you’ reflects that.” What does this look like in practice? Well, if you want to reach new fitness goals this year, start by taking small steps in areas you want to see improvement. “As coaches we like to focus on momentum over motivation. Motivation is a feeling, meaning it can be temporary. Momentum, on the other hand, is about consistently

M UST SE E | FI TNES S

1. Choose the right warmup. Warm up with intention and purpose based on your goals. Focus on where you feel it in your body. 2. Find a buddy. Community is everything. If you surround yourself with people who want to be better, you will be better, too. 3. Track wins not workouts. It doesn’t always have to be about whether or not you lifted the most weight. Sometimes it’s, “did I drink water today?” or “Did I sleep enough?” Celebrating small wins is what keeps motivation high. 4. It’s bigger than the gym. There is only so much you can do in an hour. The real success is when you start to feel it in your everyday life. If you’re ready to revolutionize your life mentally and physically, Xavier has two words for you, “Let’s start.”

stacking small wins.” The idea is that once you’ve built the habit of showing up, RevBody coaches hold you accountable so that even when your motivation fades, your momentum continues. When working toward new goals, it’s important to remember that every expert was a beginner at first. Never let doubt or early failures get in the way of your health and fitness success—it’s all part of the journey. Xavier experienced this firsthand when he started running two years ago. At first, he really wanted to keep up with Oscar, but it was challenging. Oscar had been running his entire life, and Xavier’s body wasn’t used to that type of exercise. His recovery needs were totally different. Rather than be discouraged, Xavier took his own advice and started celebrating the small wins. “If it was easy, everyone would do it,” he told himself. He slowed down and started noticing each time he saw improvement. Today, running is a regular part of his fitness routine. “I believe doubt kills more dreams than failure,” he reflects. ‘You just have to keep believing in yourself.” At the end of the day, the RevBody journey can be summed up by yet another quote that Xavier and Oscar live by: “First, people will ask you why you are doing something. Then, they will ask you how you did it.” If you ever need motivation to keep believing in yourself and working toward your dreams—let Xavier and Oscar’s journey be your sign.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C HUL AV I STA

ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE

whirled

PEAS!

Vegetable juice is a great addition to your diet especially if you want to lose weight, gain energy, and feel great. Sometimes life gets too busy and you don’t have the time to cook healthy meals. Fall in love with leafy greens, fresh fruit, nut milks, and chia seeds all combined to make a quick, easy, and delicious contribution to your day.

Veggies And Blenders Bring The Health We Need

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

E N E RGY E L I X I R INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • •

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

1 beet 1 carrot 1 celery stalk 1-2 inches of ginger 1 lemon

BLU E BE R RY M I N T INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries • 1 fresh or frozen banana • 1 cup spinach • 1 cup water • 1/4 cup fresh mint • 1 cup ice if using fresh fruit

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

GR E E N SMOOT H I E DIRECTIONS:

INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups cucumber • 1 cup Granny Smith apples • 1 cup celery • 1 handful baby spinach • 1/3 cup fresh pineapple (for a sweet smoothie or zest and juice of a small lime for tart smoothie) • 1 sprig parsley

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C HUL AV I STA

JANUARY 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

EVE RY S UN DAY

Sunday Funday Cars and Coffee weekly meet-up Yum Yum Donuts - 517 Telegraph Canyon Rd in Chula Vista, CA | 7:30 – 10:00 AM Sunday Funday for trucks and cars is a weekly meetup for car enthusiasts. Show, buy, sell, trade end enjoy some donuts while you’re there. Find more info on Instagram @sundayfundaytruckandcarmeet EVE RY W E D N E S DAY

Fiesta Street Markets Paradise Village - 2700 E 4th Street National City, CA Paradise Village Generations Community Fiesta Street Market is a weekly market features handmade crafts and street food. Join them for a lively marketplace featuring diverse arts, crafts, clothing, and delectable food from local vendors. Come by to experience a true fiesta atmosphere! JA NUA RY 1 ST – 3 RD & 4TH

San Diego International Auto Show San Diego Convention Center - 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM & 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Get ready for the largest consumer event at the San Diego Convention Center! As the second-largest auto show in California, this is where manufacturers from around the world choose to unveil their latest innovations and dream cars. Come see Where the Cars are the Stars® and explore hundreds of new models all under one roof. JA NUA RY 2 N D

46th Annual Holiday Bowl at Snapdragon Stadium Snapdragon Stadium - 2101 Stadium Way, San Diego, CA 92108 | 5:00 PM Come enjoy the 46th Annual Holiday Bowl where a team from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) will face off with a team from the current or former Pac-12 conference, followed by exciting holiday events that bring world-class marching bands, magnificent floats, entertaining drill teams, and a procession of enormous balloons. JA NUA RY 3 RD

Wildlife Kayaking Eco Tour Bayside Park 999 Bayside Pkwy Chula Vista, 91910 | 8:30 – 11:30 AM Join an exciting and challenging kayaking adventure through Chula Vista’s coastal habitats, to the restored Chula Vista Wetlands! This guided tour takes you through dynamic waterways where you’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife, including birds, fish, and coastal creatures. While all skill levels are welcome, please be aware the kayaking portion is fairly long and requires endurance. https:// oceanconnectors.org/event/wildlife-kayaking-eco-tour-108/ JA NUA RY 1 6T H – 1 8T H

USA Archery Indoor Nationals at the Easton Center of Excellence Easton Archery Center of Excellence - 2800 Olympic Parkway Building 2000 Chula Vista, CA 91915 Easton Archery Center of Excellence will be one of the host sites for the 57th USA Archery Indoor Nationals and the 2026 USA JOAD Indoor Nationals. Archers will be competing across multiple weekends at the indoor range. CONTINUED >

EVE N TS

realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N C H U L A V I S TA . NEIGHBORHOOD

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

B AT H S

1133 Carlos Canyon Dr

$2,300,000

100%

1461 Agate Creek Way

$1,595,000

$1,590,000

100%

1626 Coolsprings ct

$1,328,000

$1,300,000

98%

728 Crooked Path Place

$1,250,000

$1,225,000

98%

1682 May Ave

$1,165,000

$1,220,000

105%

1321 Blue Sage Way

$1,250,000

$1,210,000

97%

694 Camina Place

$1,199,000

$1,175,000

98%

2408 Green River Dr

$1,299,900

$1,175,000

90%

2706 Valley Creek Circle

$1,399,900

$1,170,000

84%

108

259 Vista Del Mar Ct

$1,070,000

$1,065,000

100%

1293 Nolan Avenue

$987,000

$1,012,000

103%

2383 Forest Oaks Drive

$980,000

$1,010,000

103%

This data is a sampling of sold properties from November 2025. Source: IRES MLS system.

Houses recently SOLD in Chula Vista over $1M dlls. If you are interested in buying or selling a house in Chula Vista call or text me for a free consultation.

JORGE ALVAREZ 619.836.2784 | www.propiedadesEnSanDiego.com | #02047054 JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C HUL AV I STA

events

CONTINUED

JA NUA RY 1 7 T H & 1 8T H

“Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote” world premiere Southwestern College - 900 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91910 | 7:00 PM & 4:00 PM Get ready to be transported to a world of vibrant music and stunning performances with the world premiere of Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote. An allegorical tale, Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote brings to light the hardship and struggles facing families who seek to make better lives for themselves by crossing the border. JA NUA RY 1 8T H

44th Annual San Diego MLK Parade Harbor Drive South, running from Ash to Pacific Highway | 11:00 AM Join the community for this inspiring and deeply moving annual celebration honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The parade is organized by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, of which Dr. King was a member, and will feature dynamic floats, high-stepping high school bands, dedicated sororities, and numerous local organizations. JA NUA RY 2 6T H – F E B RUARY 2 ND

Restaurant Week San Diego It’s almost time for San Diego Restaurant Week! Enjoy an 8-day edible extravaganza showcasing over 100 of San Diego’s best restaurants from Oceanside to Chula Vista offering variations of multi-course menus starting at just $30.

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C H U L A V I S TA

EVE N TS

Peace of Mind Power: Smart Upgrades for a Safe New Year Light House Electrical Light House Electrical, proudly serving San Diego County, CA, offers unparalleled electrical services for both residential and commercial customers. With over 18 years of hands-on experience, our team of licensed professionals is dedicated to delivering reliable and efficient electrical solutions. As a service-connected, disabled veteran-owned business, we bring a unique blend of expertise, commitment, and integrity to every project.

LightHouseSoCal.com 619-904-6876

Grazing Tables & Boards Make your gatherings and events truly unforgettable with our lavish grazing tables and boards. Zero prep, zero stress! We handle the design, delivery, & setup!

Original Oil Paintings & Fine Art Prints Welcome to a world where every painting tells a story of connection, nostalgia, and individuality.

Joye's Gone Grazey Charcuterie

Browse the Full Collection rebeccarobbfineart.com

info@rebeccarobbfineart.com rebeccarobbfineart

WWW.JOYESGONEGRAZEY.COM | 619.508.1041 JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C HUL AV I STA

Affordable Child Care Starts Here Many families in our community qualify for subsidized child care services they don’t know exists. CDA offers eligible families access to affordable, quality child care with their choice of provider, while managing the payments seamlessly. Share this resource with your community and help families build the stability they deserve.

Discover more at cdasd.org